Sucee

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Medically reviewed

Rosario Oropesa

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Sucee

Property Description
Active Ingredient(s) Cyproterone Acetate, Ethinyl Estradiol
Form Oral Tablet (Coated)
Pharmacological Class Antiandrogen Preparation in combination with Estrogens
Common Use (General) Manages conditions linked to androgen excess; provides oral contraception
Origin Synthetic Steroid Compounds

What is Sucee and How is it Classified?

Sucee is a prescription medicine categorized as a hormonal medicine and an antiandrogen preparation in combination with estrogens. This medicine is a synthetic steroid compound administered as an oral tablet intended for systemic use. It is formally classified under the Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical (ATC) code G03HB01, which specifically groups combinations of cyproterone and estrogen. This places Sucee in a unique pharmacological class distinct from standard combined oral contraceptives (COCs), as its formulation is specifically engineered to target conditions influenced by the overactivity of male hormones, or androgens. This focus supports its use for hormonal regulation in women.


Composition: Cyproterone Acetate and Ethinyl Estradiol

Sucee is a fixed-dose combination product containing the active ingredients Cyproterone Acetate and Ethinyl Estradiol (EE). The Cyproterone Acetate component functions as both a progestogen and a potent antiandrogen, while Ethinyl Estradiol provides the necessary estrogen. Both components are synthetic steroid compounds. The inclusion of a highly potent antiandrogen sets this specific formulation apart, making it a key systemic treatment option for female patients experiencing significant androgenization symptoms. The oral tablet formulation consists of these active ingredients alongside solid pharmaceutical excipients to facilitate its oral route of administration and ensure consistent hormone delivery.


General Therapeutic Purpose

The general purpose of Sucee is to manage conditions in women caused by the overactivity or excess of androgens, while concurrently providing effective oral contraception. By utilizing the antiandrogen properties of Cyproterone Acetate, the medicine helps to counteract the systemic hormonal drivers, such as in the typical use scenario of managing severe skin conditions in women of reproductive age. Since the formulation contains hormones that suppress ovulation, it inherently acts as a reliable Combined Oral Contraceptive (COC). This fulfills a crucial dual function of establishing hormonal balance and providing contraceptive efficacy.

What side effects are possible with Sucee?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile for Sucee, which combines Cyproterone Acetate and Ethinyl Estradiol, is defined by regulatory classification of observed adverse reactions and specific usage constraints. The most serious risks are vascular, while common effects are typically related to the hormonal components.


Adverse Reactions and Frequencies

Adverse reactions are classified by frequency as observed in clinical documentation:

  • Common Reactions (affecting 1 to 10 in 100 users) include headache, nausea, abdominal pain, depressed mood, breast pain or tenderness, and weight changes. Irregular uterine bleeding, such as spotting, is also commonly documented.
  • Uncommon Reactions (affecting 1 to 10 in 1,000 users) may include migraine, vomiting, and fluid retention.

Adverse effects are documented across several body systems, including Vascular Disorders, Psychiatric Disorders, Hepatobiliary Disorders, and Nervous System Disorders.

Serious Safety Constraints

Regulatory documents emphasize certain rare but serious adverse reactions. The most critical is the increased risk of venous and arterial thromboembolism (VTE and ATE), which includes risks such as Deep Vein Thrombosis and Stroke. The highest documented risk for these events occurs during the first year of starting the medicine or upon restarting after a break of four weeks or more.

Specific constraints strictly prohibit use in individuals with a history of Meningioma (a rare tumour associated with Cyproterone Acetate), pre-existing Thromboembolic Events, or Severe Hepatic Disease. Co-administration with any other hormonal contraceptive is also prohibited.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help — Official Regulatory Information

The information regarding overdose of Cyproterone Acetate and Ethinyl Estradiol (Sucee) is structured by regulatory bodies based on the expected clinical presentation and mandated emergency response.

Overdose Presentation Details from Official Labeling
Documented Manifestations The most common documented signs following an acute overdose are nausea and vomiting. Vaginal bleeding (withdrawal bleeding) may also occur in female patients taking the active tablets.
Severity and Prognosis Based on the classification of combined oral contraceptives, acute overdose is generally not likely to be life-threatening.

Required Emergency Actions

Official regulatory information emphasizes that immediate action is necessary in the event of a suspected overdose. The instruction is to seek medical help right away by immediately contacting a local poison control center or emergency room. This mandated action applies despite the low acute severity risk.

Management and Monitoring

The official overdose management protocol specifies that no specific antidote is known for this combination medicine. Treatment is limited to symptomatic treatment, which is administered to manage the documented manifestations. Monitoring of the person's vital signs, including temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure, may be required in an emergency setting.

Therapeutic Uses of Sucee

What Sucee Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Sucee is applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed to address symptoms that create noticeable physiological strain. The medication is applied across therapeutic domains to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and bring down a high temperature (fever).

Easing Pain, Fever, and Discomfort

Sucee is commonly used to help with symptoms related to physical discomfort, managing symptom clusters relevant to common aches like headaches, muscle aches, and menstrual discomfort. It is also relevant in situations involving recurrent or episodic manifestations of fever, assisting with managing symptoms of increased physiological stress. This provides support that helps ease the overall symptom burden and contributes to improved comfort during symptomatic periods.

Supportive Management for Acute Episodes

For conditions presenting with acute episodes, Sucee is applied in addressing symptoms related to inflammatory or irritative states, such as minor swelling. It is relevant when symptoms become temporarily overwhelming, and the support offered may help patients cope more steadily with symptom fluctuations, assisting with maintaining functional stability.


Quick Fact: Relief for Acute Discomfort Sucee is generally used for managing symptoms that are mild to moderate in intensity and are part of episodic or fluctuating manifestations.


Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who Can and Cannot Use Sucee?

Sucee (Cyproterone Acetate/Ethinyl Estradiol) is a medicine with highly restricted eligibility due to regulatory requirements. It is officially intended as a second-line treatment, not for use solely as a contraceptive, and is subject to numerous absolute contraindications.

Who Is Eligible?

The medicine is restricted to women of reproductive age who are being treated for severe androgenization symptoms (such as pronounced acne or hirsutism) that have failed to respond to less potent treatments like topical therapy or systemic antibiotics.


Who Must Not Use Sucee? (Absolute Contraindications)

Official regulatory documents strictly prohibit the use of Sucee in patients with certain high-risk conditions, primarily related to clotting and liver function. Use is absolutely contraindicated if any of the following are present:

  • A current or history of thrombotic events (e.g., deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, stroke, myocardial infarction) or severe risk factors for them.
  • A current or history of severe hepatic disease or liver tumours.
  • A current or history of meningioma.
  • Known or suspected pregnancy or breastfeeding.
  • Undiagnosed abnormal vaginal bleeding.
  • Concomitant use with any other hormonal contraceptives.

Use is not indicated for pre-pubertal children, and caution is required for women over 35 who smoke, as this combination significantly increases cardiovascular risk.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Sucee (Cyproterone Acetate/Ethinyl Estradiol) is subject to officially documented interactions that primarily involve altered hepatic clearance of its hormonal components and specific contraindicated combinations. The regulatory profile defines interactions that may either decrease Sucee's exposure or increase the exposure of co-administered drugs.

Contraindicated Combinations

Co-administration with certain medicinal products is formally prohibited as stated in regulatory prescribing information:

  • Other Hormonal Contraceptives: Sucee must not be used concurrently with any other hormonal contraceptive product.
  • Hepatitis C Drug Combinations: Combination regimens containing ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir, with or without dasabuvir, are contraindicated due to the risk of significant ALT enzyme elevations.

Pharmacokinetic Interactions

Regulatory documents identify two main types of pharmacokinetic interactions:

Interaction Type Interacting Substances (Examples) Interaction Outcome (Official Description)
Decreased Sucee Exposure Hepatic Enzyme Inducers (e.g., Rifampicin, Carbamazepine, Phenytoin) and the herbal supplement St. John's wort. These agents reduce the plasma concentration of Ethinyl Estradiol and Cyproterone Acetate, leading to potential loss of contraceptive efficacy.
Increased Co-Drug Exposure Tizanidine, Corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisolone). Sucee can inhibit the clearance of these drugs, resulting in significantly increased plasma concentrations of the co-administered medicine.

These interaction classifications define the mandatory limitations for the co-administration of Sucee.

Mechanism of Action

The mechanism of action involves the coordinated function of its two active ingredients, Cyproterone Acetate (CPA) and Ethinyl Estradiol (EE), across three main physiological domains to modulate specific hormone pathways.


Direct Receptor Blockade and Free Ligand Reduction

The mechanism engages a dual strategy to modulate androgen signaling. CPA acts as a competitive antagonist at the Androgen Receptor (AR) in peripheral tissues (e.g., skin), directly blocking the binding and activation by endogenous androgens like Testosterone. Simultaneously, EE stimulates the liver to dramatically increase the production of Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG), which binds the circulating androgens, reducing the concentration of biologically active free androgen available to activate receptors systemically.


Central Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Ovarian (HPO) Axis Suppression

The active ingredients exert an antigonadotropic effect by triggering negative feedback on the central neuroendocrine system (Hypothalamus and Pituitary Gland). This central action suppresses the pituitary release of Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH). This inhibition halts the process of follicular development and prevents the mid-cycle LH surge, resulting in the physiological state of anovulation.


This synergy establishes the basis for the overall physiological effect through both tissue-level receptor antagonism and systemic hormone deactivation, leading to modulation of hormonal activity.

Dosage and Administration Information

Sucee is an oral tablet administered via a strict cyclic regimen. The established dosing schedule requires the intake of one active tablet daily for 21 consecutive days, followed immediately by a 7-day tablet-free interval. The entire course of administration is governed by this continuous 28-day pattern, and each dose must be taken at the same time each day to maintain a consistent hormonal profile.


For correct initiation, the first active tablet must be taken on Day 1 of the menstrual cycle (the first day of bleeding). Tablets should be swallowed whole with some liquid and must be taken in the exact sequence directed on the blister pack. Should administration begin on a day other than Day 1, a non-hormonal barrier method of contraception must be utilized as a procedural back-up for the first seven consecutive days of the cycle.


A time-sensitive protocol applies to the management of missed doses. This protocol dictates that if a dose is delayed by more than 12 hours, contraceptive protection is considered reduced, necessitating the use of non-hormonal back-up methods.


Treatment is intended for several months to achieve and maintain resolution of the androgen-dependent condition. Discontinuation is generally advised three to four cycles after the clinical signs of androgen excess have achieved complete resolution.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Sucee

Evidence Supporting Use for Moderate to Severe Acne

Official research for Sucee was studied for exploring the use for severe acne related to androgen sensitivity. The main evidence comes from Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews. These studies typically involved women of reproductive age and research examined how symptoms change over time, specifically measuring changes in overall acne severity and counts of individual acne lesions.

The findings describe patterns observed in the studies where participants experienced measurements of change in acne scores. Regulatory reviews have generally described the evidence base for this context as having a uniform pattern across several clinical trials. The evidence contributes to the broader evidence landscape by providing contextual data regarding the product's use in this clinical context. However, follow-up durations were limited, and long-term effects are not fully established.


Evidence Supporting Use for Hirsutism (Unwanted Hair Growth)

The potential role of Sucee for hirsutism was evaluated in clinical trials, including smaller RCTs. These studies examined patient-reported experiences of hair growth and monitored outcomes primarily through changes in hirsutism scores (like the Ferriman-Gallwey score) over defined time intervals (typically 6 to 12 months).

Findings indicate that studies reported patterns of measured changes in hirsutism scoring during the study period. However, the evidence quality varies across studies, and some reviews note that the findings were mixed in studies that evaluated this specific formulation against some other available antiandrogen treatments. A significant limitation is that sample sizes were modest, and data for sustained long-term effects remains insufficient.


Evidence for Contraceptive Function

Sucee was studied for its inherent function in preventing pregnancy. This evidence is built upon pharmacological studies (examining ovulation suppression) and large-scale observational data. Regulators consider this contraceptive aspect to be pharmacologically demonstrated based on this body of evidence. However, the medicine is not formally authorized as a primary contraceptive-only agent in many regions; efficacy data is primarily linked to its use for androgen-related conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Sucee (FAQ)

Q: What is the average duration of effect for a dose of Sucee?

Sucee is a daily medicine intended to keep a steady level of its hormonal components in your body. Official pharmacological data indicates that one of the active ingredients, Ethinyl Estradiol, has an elimination half-life of approximately 18 hours. The longer half-life of Cyproterone Acetate supports the continuous daily dosing regimen described in official instructions.

Q: What are the major differences between Sucee and other medicines for the same condition?

According to official product information, Sucee is unique because it combines an estrogen with Cyproterone Acetate, a potent antiandrogen. This formulation allows the medicine to perform a dual function: it treats conditions related to excess male hormones, while also providing reliable oral contraception. This makes it pharmacologically distinct from other single-component treatments for the same conditions.

Q: Can older adults typically use Sucee?

The official product information specifies that Sucee is not indicated for use in post-menopausal women. The medicine is generally restricted to women of reproductive age and use in older adults is typically not indicated.

Q: Can Sucee be taken with supplements or vitamins?

Regulatory documents detail that Sucee is known to interact with certain medicinal products and the herbal supplement St. John's wort, which can potentially reduce its effectiveness. While most common vitamins are not specifically named, patients are typically advised to report all concurrently used non-prescription medicines and supplements to their healthcare provider.

Q: How should Sucee be stopped once treatment is complete?

Official instructions state that treatment is typically advised to continue for three to four cycles after the clinical signs of the androgen excess have completely resolved. Regulatory guidelines describe that the final cycle of treatment should be completed, following the strict 21/7 day regimen.

Q: Is it true that Sucee is sometimes used for conditions other than its main use?

The official indications for Sucee are to manage androgen-dependent conditions, such as severe acne and hirsutism. The medicine inherently provides effective oral contraception due to its hormonal composition, and this is considered part of its dual function. Any use outside of these approved indications is not supported by regulatory documents.

Q: What is the pregnancy safety category for Sucee?

Regulatory warnings indicate that known or suspected pregnancy is an absolute contraindication for Sucee. This means the medicine must not be used during pregnancy due to potential risks. For this reason, the formulation is assigned to the regulatory category that prohibits its use in pregnant women.

Q: Why is Sucee sometimes described as a 'novel' medication?

The medicine is often described as unique because of its formulation. Official documents highlight that it is a fixed-dose combination product that includes the highly potent antiandrogen Cyproterone Acetate alongside an estrogen. This specific combination is designed to target androgen-dependent conditions directly.

Q: How does the action of Sucee differ from placebo in research trials?

Clinical studies show that Sucee has a therapeutic effect that differs significantly from a placebo (an inactive pill). Research trials indicate that the medicine causes measurable changes and improvements in patient outcomes, specifically reducing acne severity scores and hirsutism scores over the study period.

Q: Do studies suggest Sucee is effective for all patients who try it?

Official clinical trial results indicate that the medicine causes a pattern of measured improvement across the study populations. However, individual patient responses to any medicine can vary, and successful treatment efficacy is not guaranteed for every patient. Improvement is generally assessed over a continuous period of several months.

Q: How quickly does Sucee start working after you take it?

While the active ingredients are absorbed into the body rapidly, the clinical benefits that the medicine treats take longer to develop. Studies show that the measurable antiandrogenic effects, such as a noticeable improvement in acne or unwanted hair growth, typically appear after 3 to 6 months of continuous use.

Q: Can Sucee be taken by people with kidney issues?

Regulatory documents caution that renal failure has been reported as a serious adverse reaction post-marketing. If you have pre-existing kidney problems, it is important to be cautious. Use of this medicine in patients with kidney issues requires individual evaluation by a healthcare provider.

Q: Are there any common foods or drinks that should be avoided when taking Sucee?

Authoritative sources sometimes advise avoiding grapefruit and grapefruit juice. These products can potentially interfere with the way the body breaks down the medicine, leading to altered plasma concentrations of its components.

Q: Does Sucee cause changes in sleep patterns?

Dizziness or drowsiness are occasionally reported side effects, which can sometimes interfere with rest. While severe insomnia is not consistently listed as a common reaction, the hormonal components of the medicine have been known to affect general energy levels, particularly when treatment is first started.

Q: Can I take Sucee if I have high blood pressure?

Severe, uncontrolled high blood pressure is considered a contraindication, meaning the medicine should not be used. High blood pressure in general is a known risk factor for blood clots, which are a serious risk with this medicine. Patients with high blood pressure may need close monitoring by a healthcare professional.

Q: Does taking Sucee require any special blood tests or monitoring?

Official warnings and precautions indicate that patients may need regular medical check-ups. It is advised that blood pressure and blood lipid levels be checked periodically, as certain tests may be affected by the hormonal components of the medicine.

Q: Is Sucee known to cause dizziness or affect driving?

Dizziness is a reported side effect, though it is categorized as uncommon or less common. The official patient information advises users to be aware of their individual reaction to the medicine before operating machinery or driving.

Q: Does Sucee contain any common allergens, like gluten or lactose?

Official excipient lists show that the tablet formulation often contains common sugars, such as lactose and sucrose. Patients with known sensitivities or intolerances to these ingredients should inform their prescribing doctor.

Q: Is the feeling of tiredness a typical reaction to Sucee?

Yes, regulatory documents list tiredness (fatigue) and loss of strength or energy as common side effects. These effects are often noted during the initial few months after starting treatment.

Q: Can people with diabetes use Sucee?

Severe diabetes with known blood vessel damage is listed as an absolute contraindication. Because diabetes is a risk factor for blood clots, diabetic patients may need close monitoring of blood sugar levels by a doctor while taking this medicine.

Q: Is there a risk of dependency or addiction with Sucee?

No, the medicine is not classified as a controlled substance in the United States or under major international drug schedules. The official classifications do not indicate that it has a potential for dependency or addiction.

Q: Can I drink alcohol while taking Sucee?

While there is no formal contraindication, official warnings advise consulting a healthcare professional regarding alcohol consumption. Official warnings sometimes note that alcohol may affect side effects such as headache, dizziness, and nausea.

Q: What are the official recommendations on taking Sucee with food?

The official method of administration states that the tablets can be swallowed with a small amount of liquid and may be taken with or without food. Official product information suggests that taking the dose with food may help to manage common stomach-related side effects, such as nausea or vomiting.

Q: Is Sucee a controlled substance?

No, Sucee is not classified as a controlled substance by regulatory agencies in the United States or under major international drug schedules. It does not carry the typical restrictions or regulations associated with medicines that have a risk of dependency or misuse.

How should Sucee be stored and disposed of?

Storage and Disposal Information for Sucee

The official regulatory labeling for Sucee mandates specific conditions to maintain product stability and ensure proper disposal.

Requirement Area Official Regulatory Statement
Storage Temperature Store at controlled room temperature, 20 C to 25 C (68 F to 77 F).
Environmental Control Protect from moisture and excessive humidity. Do not freeze the product.
Stability (Post-Reconstitution) Once reconstituted, the product is stable for 24 hours when stored under refrigeration.
Child Safety Keep Sucee out of the sight and reach of children.
Disposal Do not dispose of unused or expired medicine in household trash or down a drain. Dispose of according to local pharmaceutical take-back program requirements.

These instructions ensure the medicine remains effective and guide the environmentally appropriate disposal of any unused or expired product.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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